History of Rotterdam Tour
Wheelchair accessible experience
Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Rotterdam on our meticulously curated History Tour. This tour is designed to offer an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich heritage, guiding you through centuries of transformation and growth. Led by our knowledgeable and passionate guides, this immersive journey transports you back to Rotterdam’s origins as a modest fishing village, long before it became the bustling maritime hub known worldwide today.
As we navigate through the city, you will encounter a myriad of historic landmarks that narrate the tale of Rotterdam’s evolution. From its pivotal role in global trade to the devastation of World War II and its subsequent rebirth, every corner of Rotterdam has a story to tell. Our tour not only highlights the city’s iconic architecture, including the futuristic Cube Houses and the modern marvel that is the Erasmus Bridge, but also takes you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems that are often overlooked.
Stroll through the vibrant streets and absorb the architectural grandeur of buildings that have stood the test of time. Visit significant sites such as the St. Lawrence Church, the sole surviving late Gothic building after the Rotterdam Blitz, and the historic Delfshaven district, where you can sense the spirit of the past resonating in its quaint canals and old-world charm.
ATN offers guided tours that can be tailored to your preferences. You can choose different routes and times. Your guide will navigate the city with you, selecting routes accessible to wheelchair users. The places visited during the tour have accessible entrances. Every stop on the route has been personally chosen by the Accessible Travel Netherlands Team.
Highlights
- History of Rotterdam
- Sint Laurens Kerk
- Delfshaven
- Markthal
- Cube Houses
Accessibility info
- Flat terrain
- Cobblestones: from smooth to bumpy
- Accessible bridges
- Use of sidewalk ramps
- Involve walking/rolling between the sites
- Accessible toilet
Included
- Private tour with a professional guide
- Tour adjustable to your wishes
- Duration: 3 or 4 hours
- Start: your accommodation in Rotterdam (if in the centre), Rotterdam Central Station, or Rotterdam Cruise Port
- End: on request.
- Participants: max 15 per guide
Not included:
- Food/drinks
- Transfer
Discover the tour
Rotterdam Central Station
Begin your journey at Rotterdam Central Station, a major transportation hub and a gateway to the city’s rich architectural and cultural landscape. The station, redesigned and reopened in 2014, is a modern marvel featuring a striking combination of glass, wood, and steel. Its distinctive roof, angled to point towards the city center, and the grand entrance hall exemplify Rotterdam’s contemporary architectural prowess. As you step into this bustling station, you’ll be greeted by the seamless blend of historical elements and cutting-edge design, setting the stage for your exploration of Rotterdam.
Sint Laurens-Kerk
Embark on your journey through time with a visit to Sint Laurens Kerk, Rotterdam’s only remaining late Gothic building. This iconic church, constructed between 1449 and 1525, stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and architectural splendor. The church’s rich history is deeply intertwined with the city’s own narrative, having survived the devastation of World War II. Marvel at the grandiose Gothic arches, the towering spires, and the intricate stained glass windows that tell stories of Rotterdam’s past. Inside, the serene atmosphere provides a moment of reflection amidst the bustling city. The church’s expansive nave and ornate details offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the medieval period. As a pivotal historical site, Sint Laurens Kerk not only serves as a place of worship but also as a testament to Rotterdam’s enduring spirit and architectural heritage.
Cube Houses
The guide will walk with you to Rotterdam’s famous Cube Houses, a striking example of the city’s modern architectural innovation. Designed by architect Piet Blom in the late 1970s, these houses are a unique take on urban living, with each cube tilted 45 degrees to rest on a hexagonal base. The imaginative design aims to optimize space in an urban environment while creating a visually stunning streetscape. Visitors can tour the Show Cube Museum to experience the unconventional interiors and understand the concept behind this architectural marvel. The Cube Houses not only highlight Rotterdam’s avant-garde spirit but also serve as a symbol of the city’s resilience and creativity in redefining urban landscapes after the destruction of World War II.
Markthal
Continue your historical exploration at the Markthal, a striking example of Rotterdam’s innovative spirit and modern architectural prowess. Opened in 2014, this iconic market hall combines residential and commercial spaces within a grand arch that has quickly become a city landmark. The Markthal’s unique design, featuring a massive, horseshoe-shaped structure, houses a vibrant indoor market where you can sample a plethora of international cuisines and local delicacies. The ceiling of the Markthal is adorned with the largest artwork in the Netherlands, “Horn of Plenty” by Arno Coenen, which adds to the building’s allure with its vivid and colorful depiction of fresh produce. This site not only serves as a culinary hotspot but also represents Rotterdam’s post-war reconstruction and its forward-looking urban development. The Markthal encapsulates the city’s ability to blend historical appreciation with contemporary innovation, making it a fitting endpoint to your journey through Rotterdam’s storied past.
Delfshaven
Next, step into the charming district of Delfshaven, a historic quarter that has retained its old-world charm amidst Rotterdam’s modern skyline. Delfshaven, originally a harbor for the city of Delft, is a picturesque enclave that escaped the wartime bombings, preserving its 17th-century buildings and quaint canals. Wander through its cobblestone streets and discover the rich maritime history that defines this area. Key landmarks include the Pilgrim Fathers Church, where the Pilgrims gathered before setting sail to America, and various old warehouses that have been converted into cozy cafes and shops. The atmosphere here is imbued with a sense of nostalgia, offering a stark contrast to the contemporary architecture found elsewhere in Rotterdam. Delfshaven’s historical significance and well-preserved beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the city’s multifaceted past.